How to Keep Your Dog and Cat Warm and Safe This Winter: Essential Tips

How to Protect Your Dog and Cat from the Winter Cold

When temperatures drop, it’s crucial to take extra steps to protect your pets from the cold winter weather. Dogs and cats, whether indoors or outdoors, are vulnerable to hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related health risks. Here’s how to keep your furry friends safe and comfortable this season.

Provide Warm and Dry Shelter

Pets that live outdoors or spend time outside need a sheltered, insulated, and waterproof space that blocks wind and moisture.
The shelter should be raised off the ground and cozy enough to conserve body heat.
Use bedding such as straw or cedar shavings for added insulation.
For outdoor cats, consider DIY shelters using plastic tubs or insulated boxes placed in protected locations.

Dress Your Pets for Cold Weather

Short-haired or small dogs benefit greatly from wearing sweaters or coats that cover their body from neck to base of tail.
Booties can protect dog paws from ice, salt, and chemical irritants commonly found on sidewalks.
Always ensure clothing fits properly and does not restrict movement.

Keep Hydration and Nutrition in Check

Pets need constant access to fresh, unfrozen water—check water bowls regularly and use plastic instead of metal containers to avoid frozen tongues.
Increase calories slightly during winter to help pets maintain their body heat.
Monitor pets for weight changes or signs of malnutrition due to limited outdoor activity.

Check skin, ears, nose, and paw pads frequently for frostbite signs.
Limit time outdoors during extreme cold or windy weather.
After walks or outdoor play, wipe down pets’ paws to remove irritants and prevent licking injuries.